Disclaimer: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you book through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See our Privacy Policy for details.
24 Best Things to Do in Mysore Year-Round
Mysore city, the cultural capital of Karnataka, is a traveller’s favourite. From history to nature, handicrafts to delicious food, Ashtanga Yoga to Ayurvedic retreats, palaces to art galleries – there is plenty to explore here. The city’s highlight is the Dasara festival in October, a must-see event.
Would you believe me if I said I’ve visited Mysore 10 times? Well, there are so many places to visit in Mysore, and they speak of such rich historical architecture and stories that a history buff like me can’t help but love it.
In this Mysore travel blog, I’ll share the 26 best things to do in Mysore, helping you avoid cookie-cutter tours and experience the city like a local.
If you are travelling to India for the first time, check “India travel guide for first timers from an insider” – From getting Indian tourist visa to what to pack, it covers every practical thing every visitor must know before coming to India
1. Visit The Royal Mysore Palace
The first and foremost thing to do in Mysore is to experience the grandeur of the Maharaja era by visiting palaces in Mysore.
Among the city’s seven palaces, Mysore Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, stands out. Spanning 3,800 square feet, it was constructed in 1912 by an English architect.
What’s fascinating is its blend of Hindu temple and Mughal architectural styles, with hints of Rajput and Gothic influences – That is why it is considered as “Indo Saracenic style” architecture
The original palace at the same location was made of wood but was destroyed in a fire accident. It took 15 years to build the current structure you see now.
Once the king’s rule ended, the palace was handed over to the Karnataka government.
So, if you’re reminded of Rajasthan or Brussels, you’re spot on!
Honestly, unless you observe the details of Royal Mysore Palace closely, you might not notice the distinct styles.
Plus, if you hire a tour guide by mistake (which I did during my first two visits to Mysore Palace), they rush through everything, leaving you wondering, “Why is Mysore Palace so famous?”
For all visitors, Mysore Palace has audio guides and is open on all seven days. To have the best experience visiting Mysore Palace, you need to know certain practical things.
You don’t need a detailed history of the palace, but knowing why you need at least three hours to explore Mysore Palace and which parts you can visit is essential.
This will ensure you make the most of your visit and truly appreciate the beauty and significance of the palace.
Plus, Mysore palace lit during Sunday Night is a spectacular thing!
So if you are in Mysore on Sundays, don’t have any plans after 7.30 PM. Because taking a ride around the palace when it’s decorative lights are on is the best thing to do in Mysore at night.
2. Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery
Want to see a place older than Mysore Palace that houses beautiful art Gallery ? Head to Jaganmohan Palace.
Jaganmohan is smaller than the Royal Palace in size.Because it was built as a temporary residence for the royal family when the main wooden palace was constructed in 1897 and is still owned by the royal family today.
The architecture may not be as grand as Amba Vilas Palace, but the collection of paintings is mind-blowing!
I’m hardly an art gallery person , but the paintings created by India’s greatest painters, such as Ravi Varma and S.L. Haldankar, are a must-see while in Mysore.
Photography is prohibited for all the right reasons, except in a few spots.
The entry fee to the Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery is less than ?40, and you can easily spend about two hours here.
What is special about Jaganmohan Palace?
The art gallery has more than 2,000 priceless and beautiful paintings. Some are under restoration, while the rest adorn the walls.
If you are Indian, you surely would have heard of painter Raja Ravi Varma and seen his paintings. But here at Jaganmohan Palace Gallery, you can see his works up close!
My favourite remains “Glow of Hope” by Haldankar. Haldankar bought a saree for his wife in 1945-46.
His daughter took the saree instead, draped it, and came out of the room with a lamp in her hand. The lamp’s glow on his beautiful daughter’s face inspired the painter.
He made her pose with the lamp for three hours, creating this masterpiece. Later, this piece won first prize in the Dasara exhibition, and the Mysore Royals bought it. Many Indians know of these paintings, but sadly, most attribute them to Raja Ravi Varma.
Ravi Varma’s paintings are no less impressive.
Famous ones exhibited in this gallery include Goddess Lakshmi in a pink saree standing on a lotus (a print of this is most common in Hindu households’ Puja rooms), Damayanthi with Hamsa (swan), Dattatreya with his dogs, and Woman with a Fruit.
And the walls in upper floors of Jaganmohan Palace are adorned with beautiful paintings too.
3. Dinner at Lalitha Mahal Palace
You have seen where Mysore kings lived and how lavish they lived. But you also must dine like a royal while in Mysore. One of the top things to do in Mysore is to have a dining experience at the “Lalitha Mahal Palace.”
Surprisingly, you won’t lose a fortune by having dinner at Lalitha Mahal Palace. A dinner for two would cost between ?3000 and ?4500 at Lalitha Mahal Palace restaurant “Sapphire”.which serve both veg and non vegetarian food.
The interiors boast polished marble floors, rosewood furniture, and a grand balustrade staircase, epitomizing princely luxury.
Compared to many palace hotels in India, it is much cheaper – I was much hesitated to dine here because of the cost. But the
The interiors of this palace hotel, built in 1931 as a guesthouse for British viceroys, make you feel like you’re in Europe with its neoclassical design and colonial influences.
The high ceilings with stucco work, stained glass elements, columns and pilasters with a touch of bling, and balustraded balconies all contribute to the grandeur.
The light blue and white colour scheme and wooden furniture got me thinking if I was dining at the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg. I realised I was in our very own Mysore when my “Mysore Thali” – a complete vegetarian South Indian meal – arrived at my table.
Of course, you can get all kinds of continental food, from Thai to European. But dining in a place where Maharajas once dined, I really wanted to savour the local cuisine.
4. Stay at Heritage Hotel in Mysore
Mysore is all about Maharajas and Royals. When in the city, one of the unique things to do in Mysore is to feel like royalty by staying in a heritage building converted into traveller’s accommodation.
The best part is you don’t have to spend a lot to experience a heritage stay in Mysore.
Of course, if you want to splurge and experience the total Maharaja style, Royal Orchid Metropole or Lalitha Mahal Palace is there for you.
But there are many heritage houses that once belonged to Mysore Dewans (the king’s advisors and ministers) now converted into heritage stays.
You can rent a heritage villa for your family and feel like Mysore Dewans throughout your entire trip. Or there’s even a hostel housed in a 115-year-old bungalow.
5. Spend an evening at Chamundi Hills
Chamundi hills goes to the top of the list of most important places to visit in mysore. Because it is home to a Goddess Chamundeshwari, the guardian deity of the Maharajas of Mysuru. She is believed to protect not only Mysore but the entire state of Karnataka.
For Hindus, the religious significance is the main reason to visit Chamundi Hill.
For others, it’s a chance to learn about Mysore’s history, enjoy the green landscape, and experience a typical temple visit.
You’ve probably seen the iconic picture of travellers posing in front of a giant demon statue with a distinctive moustache and a sword.
This statue of Mahisha, whom Goddess Chamundi defeated, is right in front of Chamundeshwari Temple. Visiting this spot is a tradition for many arriving in Mysore.
Another must-see on Chamundi Hill is the colossal Nandi statue surrounded by woods.
To reach the hilltop, you can drive or take a city bus. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a cheetah if you drive after sunset! Make sure to stop at viewpoints along the way.
The hilltop resembles a small town with food carts and shops.
If you love hiking, consider climbing the 1000 steps. Keep in mind that local authorities may occasionally close the trails, so check before starting your hike.
6. Saint Philomena’s Cathedral
When you travel on Good Shepherd Convent Road, you’ll notice two tall spires in the silhouette from afar.
As you get closer, the sight will surprise you?a neo-gothic style cathedral resembling the Cologne Cathedral in Germany, situated in the context of a typical Indian city vibe.
That is Saint Philomena’s Cathedral for you.
Saint Philomena’s Cathedral in Mysore is one of the largest and most impressive churches in India.
With colonial arrival, Christianity entered India, and the cathedral was constructed in 1936 to cater to the Christian population of Mysore. It was named after Saint Philomena, a 3rd-century saint and martyr.
As an architect, I couldn’t help but notice the typical neo-gothic style features in the interiors and exteriors of the cathedral.
Beautiful stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of Christ, intricate marble carvings, and a crypt that houses a statue of Saint Philomena.
My plan was to spend about 30 minutes at the cathedral, but the peaceful ambiance and architectural beauty made me stay inside for more than an hour.
Whether you’re attending a mass or simply exploring, the cathedral is one of the must-visit Mysore tourist attractions for everyone.
Want Practical information on how to get to Mysore, how to get around and best time to visit? Read our Mysore Travel Guide and Plan your trip easily
7. Go on Heritage walking tours
As one of India’s historical cities, Mysore holds countless hidden stories.
For instance, the wrestler king Narasa Raja Wodeyar I (1638–1659), popularly known as Ranadheera Kanteerava, defeated an arrogant wrestler in Kerala and hung his underwear at the town’s entrance. This act became a stepping stone to adding “Malla Yuddha” to the Dasara festivals.
Another intriguing story is about why he had ten wives, all of whom offered themselves to “Sati.”
There’s also the strangest story about how Mysore Wadiyars cannot have their own heir and must adopt children.
This dates back to a curse by a lady from Talakadu, which still affects the family today. Walking tours in Mysore are like walking through a gripping novel.
Then, of course, there are food tours that take you to epic ancient food stalls in Mysore and narrate the invention of each dish. To experience Mysore beyond tourist attractions, the wisest thing to do is go on a heritage walking tour.
Personally, I don’t recommend visiting the palace as part of the walking tour.
The audio guide in the palace is more than sufficient to understand its history and architecture. Instead, go on market tours, temple tours, or countryside tours.
Mysore boasts a rich heritage, evident in its diverse art and craft traditions. While some of these crafts are fading away, others are thriving and even have Geographical Indication (GI) tags.
Among the famous crafts of Mysore are Ganjifa painting, Rosewood inlay work, and Mysore paintings.
To truly understand why Mysore is considered the cultural capital of Karnataka, visiting these artisans in their workshops is a must.
8. Devaraja Market
One of the coolest things to do in Mysore to get a glimpse of local life is to visit Devaraja Market. It’s not just for tourists; locals come here to shop and bargain for the best deals.
Many travellers skip this place, but you shouldn’t. Most markets are alive at only one point of the day, but Devaraja Market is different.
Even if you’re not buying anything, a trip to Devaraja Market is a must. It’s a feast for your senses?your ears, eyes, and nose will thank you.
The buzz starts at 6:30 in the morning when trucks unload items and continues until early evening when flowers are delivered. It goes on till 9 at night.
Even when I wandered through the market post-lunch, smelling garlands and jasmine the vibe was as high as it was in the morning. high even at noon.
What makes Devaraja Market of Mysore special?
Back in the 18th century, the site of today’s market was just a weekly open veggie market. Then in the 1900s, thanks to the King of Mysore at the time, Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, it got its own building.
Now, there are over 800 shops inside, sporting traditional architecture that reflects its history. Some shops even have tarpaulins on the sides, giving off a Middle Eastern vibe.
The market has four different entries with a designated place for every item: flower market, vegetable markets, artificial jewellery shops.
Except ready-to-eat food, you find anything and everything here at a low price.
The most flowers come from Gundlupet, Chamarajanagar, and Ooty.
An hour spent here will be super fun, and you will learn the art of bargaining at least a little.
A conversation with the vendor is always fun, especially when you ask for a price.
9. Witness the KSIC Mysore Silk making at their Factory
If you are a textile enthusiast or love exploring India’s fabric culture, visiting the KSIC Mysore Silk Factory is a delight.
As an admirer and user of Indian handloom, I can vouch that KSIC Mysore silk sarees are the softest, easiest to use, and the most elegant of all sarees in India.
These sarees are made exclusively in a single factory in Mysore using pure gold and silver threads with the highest quality of mulberry silk.
Make sure to call ahead, carry an ID, and follow their procedures before visiting.
Every process, from warping to weaving and dyeing, happens under one roof. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the factory, except for the dyeing area (with permission).
KSIC Mysore silk sarees are known for their softness and durability (I have my mom’s KSIC Mysore silk saree that is 25 years old and still shining bright). Plus, they are the easiest sarees to drape- So KSIC Mysore silk sarees are definitely among the top things to buy in Mysore.
If you want to buy a Mysore Silk saree, choose one with traditional motifs like Gandaberunda and Mango. But keep in mind, these aren’t cheap?a saree with a 1 cm border costs around ?16,000!
Why are KSIC Mysore Silk Sarees Expensive?
KSIC Mysore silk sarees are crafted with 100% pure natural silk and embellished with 24-carat real gold threads from Surat, Gujarat. The price of KSIC Mysore silk sarees is directly proportional to the gold price. The more zari in your saree, the higher the price.
Heads Up: Watch out for shops selling fake Mysore silk sarees. Some may have zari borders made of lower-quality silk, not real gold. Be cautious of auto and taxi drivers steering you elsewhere.
Stick to outlets listed on the KSIC website for authentic purchases.
10. Sandalwood factory visit
If you love fragrances, Sandalwood is likely familiar to you. Its warm, woody aroma is cherished in incense, perfumes, and soaps.
The best Sandalwood in India comes from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, with Mysore being a key production center.
Tipu Sultan, Mysore’s ruler in 1792, deemed it a royal tree, ensuring its preservation.
Who started the Sandalwood factory in Mysore?
The factory was set up by Krishna Raja Wadiyar IV and Visvesvaraya in 1916. They aimed to use surplus Sandalwood stock after World War I.
Sir Visvesvaraya quickly developed the most fragrant soap using old machines, and these soaps became famous for their affordability.
So this factory is one of the off-beat things to see in Mysore – Not many travellers do this.
Status of Mysore Sandalwood factory now
Due to tree smuggling and government negligence, the factory operates slowly now. Prior permission is required for factory tours.
Inside, the fragrance grows stronger, reminiscent of a haunted house that smells fantastic. If the factory has received wood, the 1916 machines produce oil efficiently. Otherwise, the caretaker explains the processes and gives a quick tour.
Finally, head to the Mysore Sandal Soap Factory Outlet. Though the sellers are lethargic, the premium sandalwood soaps, costing ?800 for a 150gm bar, are worth it. Regular soaps, priced at ?70, are also excellent.
11. Visit Rosewood Inlay work Artists Studio
Mysore is home to many crafts and handicrafts, with the most well-known being Rosewood Inlay work.
This craft has been passed down through generations for approximately 400 years, starting during the Vijayanagara kings’ era.
The process begins with skilled artists carving intricate designs into rosewood planks. These designs are then filled with delicate inlays of materials like ivory, mother-of-pearl, or ebony.
The artists carefully fit each tiny piece into the carved patterns, creating stunning images of flowers, birds, and traditional motifs.
The final step involves polishing the piece to a rich, glossy finish, highlighting the beautiful contrasts.
To witness this delicate and intricate process, you must visit an artist’s workshop.
While there aren’t organized tours, you can visit these artisans’ workshops solo, even if you’re not fluent in Kannada.
Many craftsmen speak English and welcome visitors into their homes. A few Kannada phrases or Google Translate can help. These workshops are mainly in Old Mysore, especially Mandi Mohalla.
I have been to Sri Geetha Fine Arts and Arun Fine Arts, they are really good at what they do. Plus theya re happy to share their knowledge with those who are interested to know
12. Handicrafts Shopping at Cauvery Emporium
As Mysore is home to many handicrafts, shopping for these handcrafted masterpieces by local artisans is a great way to take back meaningful souvenirs.
Even as an experienced Indian traveller who writes about Indian handicrafts for national newspapers, I sometimes get caught in the loop of fake products!
So if you are a tourist, you will likely face a similar problem.
A clever thing to do in Mysore to avoid the scam of fake handicrafts is to head to Cauvery Karnataka State Arts & Crafts Emporium.
This government-run emporium is well-maintained and always stocked with authentic items.
Whether you want to buy original and pure sandalwood products, rosewood inlay works of Mysore, good incense sticks and perfumes, or wooden dolls from Channapatna, Cauvery Emporium has everything for you.
You may find that prices here are higher than in other shops, but you can be sure of the authenticity and originality of the products.
Even if you aren’t buying anything, a visit to Cauvery Emporium showcases handicrafts not only from Mysore but from all over Karnataka.
There are two outlets in Mysore: one inside Mysore Palace (which is smaller)
And the other bigger, better, and more beautiful outlet is located on Sayyaji Rao Road, which I highly recommend.
I always buy my Mysore Sandal Millennium Soap (costs Rs 550/100g bar) from here.
13. Try Local Delicacies in Mysore
When in Mysore, eat what Mysoreans eat – you will love it.
The cuisine of Mysore is similar to that of the rest of Southern Karnataka, but the way Mysore folks make those same foods is amazing. Mysoreans add unique twists to the usual dishes.
Mysore Masala Dosa, Dahi Vada, special non-veg pulao, biryanis, and Ragi mudde with mutton curry are some of the must-try foods in Mysore.
Long ago, during the Maharaja era, Rajasthani settlers came to Mysore, so you will find lots of chaats and snacks of Rajasthani origin in the city.
Plus, the street food scene in Mysore is no less exciting. The Gobi Manchurian I had at Mysore Amruth Gobi is the best Manchurian ever.
Whether snacks or lunch, fresh chai or wine like grape juice, Mysore keeps your taste buds happy and healthy
Another great thing is that there are plenty of places to try each of these foods in Mysore. It isn’t just one dosa place or pulao place in Mysore.
Heads up: Mysore is notorious for having duplicates of the same brand. So, you will find the same-name restaurants in many places.
Plus, don’t be disheartened when waiters in these Mysore food places behave disinterested while serving. It’s similar to how Viennese cafe staff behave. It’s just the nature of Mysoreans – laid back.
14. Go Cafe hopping
Mysore cafe vibe may not be as fine as Fort Kochi cafe culture. But it does have some. Thanks to its 100+ undergrad colleges and throngs of global travelers.
Old mansions are morphing into hip cafes, often rocking live music gigs.
Whether you’re craving pakodas or quesadillas, filter coffee or macchiatos, these spots are an oasis, especially when it pours. Some of the good cafes in Mysore to take a break for wandering are
- Roy’s Cafe: Sporting a blue and white theme, this cafe on the upper floor serves delicious food and attracts a crowd of remote workers.
- Malgudi Coffee Shop & Bakery : Ola mansion converted into hotel serving both continental and Indian snacks
- SAPA Sourdough & Pastry: The best in Mysore, this cafe surprises with good sourdough bread in the historic setting of Mysore.
15. Mysuru Zoo
As a kid, seeing Giraffes, Kangaroos, Elephants, White Tigers, Lions, Gorillas, and many other animals at the zoo felt like a dream. Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens is the full name of the zoo.
Despite it being one of the most famous tourist places in Mysore, the zoo well maintained. You can easily spend 3 to 4 hours with kids here.
16.Shuka Vana
Started as a rehabilitation centre for injured birds by a priest in his Ashram, Shuka Vana is home to over 450 species of birds. Although I haven’t been here myself, my niece loved it. Keep in mind that it’s a caged place for birds, not a sanctuary, so do your research before visiting.
17. Brindavan Gardens
If you’re into gardens and need a wide open space full of flowering plants where your kids can run around, Brindavan Gardens is the place to go. The place is popular among domestic tourists and is one of the common things to do in Mysore with family.
Don’t miss their musical fountain show at 6:30 PM, loved by many visitors.
18. Railway Museum
The Rail Museum in Mysore is a delightful place to explore, especially for train enthusiasts and families. It’s well laid out and pleasant to walk around, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely visit.
Unlike other famous spots in Mysore, the Rail Museum isn’t crowded, even on weekends.
Bringing railways to India is one of the few good things the British did for the country. Indian Railways has come a long way since 1853.
At the Mysore Railway Museum, you can see 6-8 retired steam engines in the museum grounds, along with other railway artefacts.
Apart from Darjeeling, where the steam engine still runs, and Shimla, where it’s a showpiece, Mysore is one of the few places where you can see our old steam engines.
You can climb into the cabins of these trains for some fantastic photos. The toy train that does laps around the museum grounds is a hit with children. Spending an hour or so here is great for travellers with kids and families.
19. Take Morning Walks
To truly experience Mysore, one of the awesomest things to do is just wander its streets, especially early in the morning – you’ll encounter countless charming heritage buildings.
The wide roads, shaded by towering trees, make aimless strolling delightful.
In the city center’s side lanes, you’ll stumble upon historically significant structures, some dating back 100-200 years, offering glimpses into the British and Wadiyar eras.
Between the Chamaraja Wadiyar statue and Kote Anjaneya Swami temple, Helping Hands Youth Organisation feeds thousands of pigeons every morning. It’s a serene sight during your morning jog.
Beautiful streets of Mysore for wandering
- Sayyaji Rao road: Most happening street, great for morning walks to see the flower market opening.
- Chikka Gadiyara square near KR Circle: Excellent plaza for people-watching.
- Irwin Road: Near Mysore Medical College.
- Ashoka Road: Near Big Clock Tower.
- Krishnaraja Boulevard: Check out Oriental Research Institute, resembles a French Chateau.
- DC Office road: Empty roads lined with trees, gardens around a heritage building built in 1895.
20. Go cycling in Rural Areas
Cycling in the rural areas of Mysore is an awesome experience.
In most Indian cities, it’s a headache to cross city lanes to get to the countryside.
But with less traffic and wide roads, it’s a breeze to cycle through Mysore. Within 15 minutes of cycling within the city limits, you can reach a tiny village.
As a hub of universities, many college students go cycling during weekends. So, cycle rental shops are plentiful in Mysore.
Ashrith’s favourite cycling route in Mysore is to Balmuri Falls, a 20 km one-way trip that takes you to the riverbank.
Belavadi is full of farms and marigold flowers, so you’re always in for a treat with nature in these small villages.
21. Take Yoga Class or Ayurvedic Retreats
One of the main reasons foreign travellers come to Mysore is for yoga or Ayurvedic retreats.
While there are many places in India for learning Yoga, Mysore stands out with its laid-back charm, low cost of living, and easy navigation, making it a special place for wellness seekers.
The Gokulam area has the highest number of yoga studios. The most renowned ones include Ashtanga Yoga Mysore, Temple of Singing Bowls, and Dr. Ramesh Shetty’s Ashtanga Yoga Shala.
For Ayurvedic retreats, my personal recommendation, based on a wonderful experience, is Indus Valley Ayurveda Centre located on Lalithadripura Road near Chamundi Hill.
Their Panchakarma treatment is amazing, and their secluded location is perfect for unwinding completely while still being just 20 minutes from the city.
22. Spend time at Mysore Lakes
The lakes of Mysore add to the city’s calming charm and slow-paced vibe. There are about four big lakes in Mysore, with Kukkarahalli and Karanji Kere being the most famous.
They are great for birdwatching and even boating. You’ll hardly find any tourists here; it’s mostly health-conscious youngsters and old Mysoreans catching up with friends.
You’ll see laughing clubs, people doing yoga, and other fitness activities.
Kukkarahalli is bigger than Karanji Kere, but personally, I prefer Karanji Kere. Both are well-maintained, but Karanji Kere has a raw charm to it.
It feels like jogging in a forest when you walk around Karanji Lake.
Here’s a spooky twist to Karanji lake: Locals and students say Karanji Lake and Karanji Road are haunted.
Ashrith says they have had their engines break down and seen weird stuff in their mirrors when he was a uni student living in Mysore.
If you’re into ghost stories, rent a bike and check it out! Let me know if you spot any ghosts around Karanji lake!
23. Wear Mysore Mallige
You often spot Indian women rocking jasmine flowers in their hair, but Mysore Jasmine (Mallige) takes it to the next level with its unique fragrance, earning it a GI Tag.
The round-shaped buds are incredibly beautiful, especially when threaded together in a string. Traditionally, they’re worn on ponytails or braids and pair perfectly with sarees or long traditional skirts.
Foreign travellers also style Mysore jasmine flowers with their western outfits.
I’ve noticed many foreigners women elegantly decorating their hats with jasmine garlands! So wearing jasmine flowers is one of the coolest things to do in Mysore.
24. Make Day trips from Mysore
In many cities, we often take day trips to escape the hustle and bustle. However, with Mysore’s laid-back vibe, you might find it hard to leave.
Nonetheless, Mysore is conveniently located near many picturesque destinations. So, when you’re in Mysore, one of the coolest things to do is to embark on day trips.
Options for One Day trip Near mysore
- Gopala Swami Betta : A temple on hilltop surrounded by scenic landscape.
- Talakadu: Explore the buried Somanath Temple and the sand-covered town.
- Ranganathittu: Perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Melkote: Enjoy a bit of hiking, visit a simple temple, and admire the awesome stepwell.
- Sri Rangapatna: Discover colorful Islamic architecture and beautiful temples by the river.
- Channapatna: Witness the epic wooden toy making and explore Jaanapadloka.
- Ramanagar: Try rock climbing and visit the filming location of the famous movie “Sholay”.
Apart from the places mentioned above, you may find places of interest near Mysore like Coorg, Kabini, and Bandipur as recommended day trips on internet junk.
These destinations are more than a day trip. I recommend spending a minimum of two days to truly experience these locations.
FAQ
Things to do in Mysore in One day
In one day in Mysore, explore the grand Mysore Palace, visit the charming Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery. Go shopping in Cauvery emporium. Enjoy a local meal, spend the evening at Chamundi Hills.
How many days to you need in Mysore?
You need a minimum of three days in Mysore to see city’s highlights and nearby places including Mysore Palace, Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery, Devaraja Market, Mysore Zoo, Lalitha Mahal Palace, Chamundi hills, Brindavan Gardens and Sri Rangapatna
Things to do in Mysore during Dasara
During Dasara in Mysore, you can enjoy 9 days festivities with food fairs,traditional Indian sports competition and shopping festival. The grand finale, “Mahanavami,” features a procession with the Golden Howdah carrying Goddess Chamundeshwari. The procession starts at Mysore Palace and ends at Bannimantap Grounds. I recommend buying a pass for a better viewing experience.
Found our list of best things to do in Mysore useful? Let us know in the comment section below.
